Horizon MMO Unveiled at G-Star 2025
"An Engaging Universe, Better Explored Together"
A Different Approach from Lineage and Its Monetization... "NCSoft's Push for Change"
"There are reactions questioning whether a company known for 'Lineage' can really create a 'good game,' but we are determined to establish a unique identity for 'Horizon Steel Frontiers.' Starting with Gamescom next year, I believe we will be able to launch globally at a rapid pace."
NCSoft unveiled the unreleased new title "Horizon Steel Frontiers" during the opening session at their booth at "G-Star 2025," held on the morning of the 13th at BEXCO in Busan. Photo by Kyungjo Noh
Lee Sungkoo, Executive Producer at NCSoft, met with reporters at "G-Star 2025" held at BEXCO in Busan on the 14th and said regarding the new title "Horizon Steel Frontiers," "We will not disappoint you."
"Horizon Steel Frontiers" is a mobile MMORPG currently being developed by NCSoft, utilizing the open-world action-adventure game "Horizon" intellectual property (IP). "Horizon" is Sony's flagship IP, with cumulative global sales reaching 40 million units.
NCSoft built anticipation by keeping the new title under wraps until unveiling it during the opening session on the first day of G-Star. The company aims for a simultaneous launch in Korea and globally in 2027, and is also developing the game to be playable on PC through NCSoft's game platform "PURPLE."
The core development concept is "the joy of taking down overwhelming machines together." Unlike the original, which focused on single-player gameplay, this title is designed to enable players to cooperate and engage in tactical battles.
NCSoft founder and CEO Kim Taekjin said in the trailer, "When I first encountered 'Horizon' in 2017, its massive mechanical lifeforms and mysterious narrative sparked my curiosity and drove me to explore the world to its limits. However, I thought it would be even better to adventure through this captivating universe with others, rather than alone, which is why we decided to make it an MMORPG."
It is said that CEO Kim is essentially one of the game's developers. Executive Producer Lee stated, "We discussed and initiated the project together from the very beginning. The CEO is very aware of what we are creating and is involved in development at every stage."
Internal expectations for the game are reportedly high. Previously, Park Byungmoo, Co-CEO of NCSoft, revealed during the third-quarter earnings conference call that "the internal demonstration received a standing ovation." Executive Producer Lee added, "In my 23 years at NCSoft, it was the first time I saw CEO Kim Taekjin and other executives rise to their feet and applaud."
Sungkoo Lee, Executive Producer (PD) at NCSoft, is introducing the new title "Horizon Steel Frontiers" during the opening session at the booth of "G-Star 2025," held on the 13th at BEXCO in Busan. Provided by NCSoft
Some have expressed concerns that the game may essentially follow the same user model as "Lineage." Executive Producer Lee, who was behind the success of "Lineage M" and "Lineage 2M," acknowledged that such reactions are understandable, but firmly stated, "This is a completely different game."
He said, "I don't think a game is bad just because it has gacha (probability-based items). There are styles where it fits." However, he emphasized, "I can promise that there will never be any Korean-style monetization (business model) elements in 'Horizon Steel Frontiers.'"
Additionally, Executive Producer Lee stated, "NCSoft has faced a crisis, and I believe we are still in one. For the past three to five years, we have been working to transform NCSoft. I hope that this year and next year, the market will recognize that NCSoft has been sharpening its resolve."
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